Islamabad: Pakistan has recorded a major rise in seafood trade, with fish exports reaching the highest level in the country’s history.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said seafood exports have touched $568 million.
He said the government’s blue economy reforms helped the sector grow during a challenging period. Moreover, frozen fish remained the top seafood product in Pakistan’s export basket.
The minister said Pakistan sent seafood products to several major global markets. These markets included China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and other countries.
He added that Pakistan achieved this record despite regional and trade-related challenges. Therefore, the latest numbers show stronger demand for Pakistani seafood in international markets.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said Fish Exports gained momentum because departments maintained quality standards. He also praised the Marine Fisheries Department for supporting exporters and meeting global requirements.
The minister appreciated Dr. Mansoor Wasan and his team for their role in this achievement. He said their efforts helped Pakistan protect quality and improve confidence among international buyers.
In addition, the government now wants to increase the value-added seafood products. This step can help Pakistan earn more from the same marine resources.
The minister said new export markets can further strengthen the country’s blue economy. As a result, the government will focus on better processing, packaging, and product development.
He said Fish Exports can grow further if Pakistan expands modern seafood facilities. Meanwhile, exporters can also benefit from improved standards and stronger market access.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry congratulated all stakeholders on the record seafood export performance. He said fishermen, exporters, officials, and technical teams contributed to this national success.
The record also highlights the importance of Pakistan’s coastal economy and marine resources. Therefore, experts believe the fisheries sector can support jobs, exports, and foreign exchange.
The government sees the blue economy as an important part of future economic growth. However, it must continue reforms to maintain this progress in global seafood markets. Pakistan’s latest seafood export figure has created fresh hope for the fisheries industry.
It also shows that local products can compete when departments follow international standards. The minister said Pakistan will keep working on new opportunities for seafood exporters.
Furthermore, he said value addition will help the country move beyond raw exports. The rise in Fish Exports gives Pakistan a chance to improve its global trade position. It also encourages investment in cold storage, processing plants, and export logistics.
Officials believe better quality control can help exporters win more buyers abroad. At the same time, stronger branding can improve Pakistan’s image in seafood markets.
The record figure marks an important moment for Pakistan’s maritime sector. Now, the government aims to turn this achievement into long-term export growth.
